Senator Kennedy Proposes Ban on Naming Buildings After Living Politicians
The Louisiana Republican suggested a new rule to prevent self-promotion through federal building designations.
Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) has called for a new rule that would prohibit naming federal buildings after politicians while they are still alive. The senator expressed his view on Sunday during an appearance on CBS News’ “Face the Nation,” suggesting that such a policy would help resolve controversies surrounding the practice.
Kennedy’s comments come amid ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to rename federal facilities and institutions after President Trump. These efforts have faced legal challenges and public scrutiny. For instance, the administration attempted to rename the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts as the Donald J. Trump and the John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts, a move that has been tied up in court.
Another instance involved the renaming of the Institute of Peace to the Donald J. Trump United States Institute of Peace. Additionally, Florida Republicans renamed the airport near President Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort as President Donald J. Trump International Airport.
Beyond buildings, proposals have surfaced to name other symbols after the president, including the Boeing F-47 fighter jet, referencing his position as the 47th president, and discussions about a Trump-class battleship. Several Republican lawmakers have also introduced legislation to feature Trump’s image or name on items such as the $100 bill.
Kennedy also raised concerns about the use of government funds for political advertising, referencing a recent ad featuring President Trump that critics have linked to midterm election campaigns. He stated, “You can’t spend public money to promote yourself,” and reiterated his belief that a rule preventing living politicians from having buildings named after them would settle such disputes.
Kennedy, who is not related to the late President John F. Kennedy, has a history of voicing independent opinions, even when they diverge from the administration’s stance. His critical questioning of former Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem regarding the use of federal funds for self-promotional ads was reportedly a factor in her dismissal from a role.
The discussions around renaming federal entities and the use of public funds for political messaging highlight ongoing debates about ethics and the appropriate use of government resources in the political sphere.